Square Enix just threw Nier fans a tantalizing bone. Series producer Yosuke Saito revealed in a recent 4Gamer interview that the team is preparing ‘just a little something’ to celebrate NieR: Automata’s ninth anniversary in February 2026. After nearly a decade without a mainline sequel, this cryptic tease has reignited hopes for Nier 3 or whatever twisted project Yoko Taro cooks up next.
The timing couldn’t be better positioned. Automata launched February 23, 2017 in Japan, making 2026 its official 9-year milestone. Square Enix announced a commemorative livestream for February 20, 2026 – three days before the anniversary date. Saito specifically cautioned fans not to ‘get too excited,’ classic Japanese developer speak for ‘something substantial but we’re not saying what.’
The Creative Dream Team Reunites
What’s most exciting isn’t just the tease – it’s who’s involved. Back in 2024, Yosuke Saito confirmed he’d reunite with director Yoko Taro and composer Keiichi Okabe for a mysterious new project. When pressed recently about progress, Saito simply stated ‘nothing has changed’ – code for steady development without delays.
Takahisa Taura, who directed Automata and recently left Platinum Games, joins the collaboration through his new studio. This core team delivered one of gaming’s greatest achievements – Automata’s 9+ million sales, philosophical storytelling, and 2B’s enduring cultural icon status make them the perfect squad for Nier’s return.
Not a Full Game (Probably)
Saito’s ‘little something’ phrasing suggests no full sequel reveal. More likely candidates include:
- Native PS5/Xbox Series/Switch 2 ports of Automata
- NieR: Automata 9th Anniversary orchestra concert
- New crossover appearances (Stellar Blade, others)
- 2B merchandise expansion or collector’s edition
- Story DLC or mobile game expansion
- Teaser trailer for actual Nier 3 (dream scenario)
The February livestream format worked brilliantly for the 15th anniversary event. Expect Yoko Taro stage antics, musical performances, and vague promises of future projects.
Why 2026 Makes Perfect Sense
Nier sits at a commercial crossroads. Automata crushed sales expectations but Replicant ver.1.22474487139… underperformed commercially. Square Enix learned their lesson – 2B drives profits, philosophical androids sell. Any 2026 announcement prioritizes Automata’s legacy while testing waters for mainline sequel.
Competition heats up too. 2026 brings Final Fantasy VII Part 3, Dragon Quest XII, multiple Persona projects. Nier needs visibility. Yoko Taro’s recent comments about unpacking boxes and AI doomsday predictions show he’s still active, just choosy with projects.
Nier 3 – Still Alive, Still Cooking
Don’t mistake anniversary hype for sequel confirmation. The actual Nier 3 (or whatever numbered entry follows) targets 2027+ window. Taura’s new studio needs ramp-up time. Square Enix prioritizes safer bets post-Fontaine controversy. But Saito’s ‘various new challenges’ comment hints bigger projects simmer behind anniversary celebrations.
| Nier Title | Release Year | Sales |
|---|---|---|
| NieR (original) | 2010 | ~500K |
| NieR: Automata | 2017 | 9M+ |
| NieR Replicant remaster | 2021 | ~1M |
Recent Nier Successes Build Momentum
The franchise never truly slept. 2024’s NieR: Reincarnation mobile game delivered surprisingly deep Drakengard lore. 2B crossed over with Stellar Blade, PUBG, Call of Duty Mobile, and more. Automata anime, stage plays, and endless merchandise keep cultural relevance strong.
Platinum Games’ stellar work on Bayonetta 3 and Astral Chain proves Taura’s team can handle ambitious action. Square Enix’s current-gen port strategy (Crisis Core Reunion success) paves technical path forward.
FAQs About the Nier 2026 Tease
Is Nier 3 announced for 2026?
No. Producer Saito calls it ‘just a little something’ for Automata’s 9th anniversary. Full sequel likely 2027+ despite creative team reuniting.
What’s the February 20 livestream?
Square Enix’s 9th anniversary celebration, three days before Automata’s Japan launch date. Expect orchestra, crossovers, possible remaster announcement.
Will we get PS5/Switch 2 versions?
Strong possibility. Automata lacks native current-gen support. Perfect anniversary upgrade alongside 2B merch push.
Yoko Taro working on it?
Yes – creative director confirmed for mysterious project with Saito and Okabe. Taura’s new studio joins. Core Automata team intact.
Why so long between games?
Automata’s unconventional success surprised everyone. Replicant underperformed commercially. Square Enix cautious with high-risk Yoko Taro projects.
Any mobile game connection?
NieR: Reincarnation shutdown didn’t kill IP. Mobile success proved lore depth. Possible expansion or spiritual successor.
2B merch situation?
2B remains Square Enix’s top merchandise earner. Anniversary guarantees figurines, soundtracks, apparel drops.
Glory to Mankind
Nine years post-Automata, Nier endures through cult fandom, 2B icon status, and Yoko Taro’s mystique. February 20 livestream becomes make-or-break moment. Native ports? Crossover bonanza? Actual sequel tease? Saito masterfully manages expectations while fanning flames.
2026 tests Square Enix’s commitment. Commercial caution clashes with creative ambition. If anniversary delivers alongside Dragon Quest 40th celebrations, Nier secures future. Otherwise, 2B haunts another year in licensing purgatory. Pod 042, 153, prepare for transmission. Something approaches.